Whey Protein
Whey protein is one of two proteins found in cow's milk, the other one being casein protein. It makes up about 20% of the protein in milk solids.

Milk solids are made up of protein, fat, lactose and other minerals. To derive whey protein, a by-product from cheese manufaturing - sweet dairy whey - is passed through a series of ceramic filters to remove fat, lactose and other ingredients. The whey protein derived by this means is concentrated as opposed to isolate.

However, concentrated whey protein does contain some whey protein isolate in its structure.

To obtain whey protein isolate, a longer and more complicated filtering process is needed.

The difference between whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate is that whey protein isolate contains about 90% or more protein, and has very little fat, compared to whey protein concentrate which can contain anywhere between 29% and 89% protein.

Whey protein isolate is considered higher quality because of its higher biological value and thus is more expensive compared to whey protein concentrate. And being the purest form of whey protein, it is absorbed more quickly and efficiently into the body and as such, is a favourite of dieters, athletes and bodybuilders.

However, the difference in protein content between the two is not necessarily huge and which one you opt for is entirely up to you.

Whey protein, in general, is low in fat and cholestrol, which is why it's a popular supplement for people who want to include a low fat food in their diet.

Furthermore, whey is a naturally complete protein being that it contains all the essential amino acids required in our daily diet and this is what sets it apart from other sources of protein. The essential amino acids play a key role in improving body composition.

Another benefit of whey protein is that it helps increase levels of the antioxidant, glutathione, which is necessary for a healthy immune system.

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